Go Back
A wooden bowl filled with creamy Arlington Chicken Salad, garnished with green onions and surrounded by fresh celery stalks, a lemon, and a jar of Arlington mayo dressing on a light countertop.

Arlington Chicken Salad Recipe

This easy Arlington chicken salad recipe is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for lunches, picnics, or meal prep. Made with shredded chicken, crunchy celery, and a tangy dressing, it’s ready in 30 minutes and serves 4. Customize with grapes, nuts, or herbs for extra flair. Gluten-free, low-carb, and beginner-friendly!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course lunch
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups  cooked chicken Shredded or diced
  • 1 cup celery Diced for a subtle bite (soak in cold water for 5 minutes to mellow the flavor if preferred).
  • 1/2 cup red onion the base of our creamy dressing (use Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Freshly squeezed for a bright, zesty kick.
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/2 cup grapes
  • 1/4 dup chopped nuts
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley
  • 1 tbsp honey:

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken:

  • If using raw chicken, cook 500g chicken breast (seasoned with salt and pepper) by boiling, baking, or grilling until fully cooked. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces.

Mix the Dressing:

  • In a large bowl, combine 120g mayonnaise, 15g Dijon mustard, and 15g lemon juice. Whisk until smooth.

Combine Ingredients:

  • Add the shredded chicken, 200g celery, and 100g red onion to the bowl. Gently fold until evenly coated.

Add Optional Ingredients:

  • If using, fold in 150g halved grapes, 50g chopped walnuts, or 10g fresh parsley.

Chill and Serve:

  • Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Serve as a sandwich filling, on a bed of greens, or with crackers.

Notes

Pro Tips

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and flavorful shortcut.
  • For a lighter version, swap mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
  • Customize with your favorite add-ins like apples, cranberries, or almonds.

Serving Suggestions

  • Salad: Scoop onto a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.
  • Appetizer: Serve with crackers or cucumber slices.

Storage Tips

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
  • Avoid freezing, as the mayonnaise-based dressing may separate.
Keyword Arlington Chicken Salad, Arlington Chicken Salad Recipe, Chicken Salad Recipe, Homemade Chicken Salad